Tuesday, May 3, 2011

NCM Motorsports Park Project Kicked Into High Gear

Each April during the National Corvette Museum’s C5/C6 Bash festivities an evening banquet is held to recognize and thank those who go the extra step to support the Museum with donations totaling $1,000 or more for the previous year, and those who have added the Museum to their estate planning.

The 2011 banquet brought special guests, members of the Corvette Racing team including Program Manager Doug Fehan, Car #3 Crew Chief Dan Binks, and Driver Tommy Milner. Doug inspired the group with a moving speech on how important dedicated enthusiasts are to both the Museum and the brand, saying that the Motorsports Park is the “final jewel in the crown of Corvette.” He added “nobody has a museum funded by the people who buy the car, love the car, have a passion for the car.” Nobody except Corvette of course! Doug reminded supporters that they have the power to make the Motorsports Park a reality and they have the power to influence others to join with them.

After presentations were made to the nearly 100 donors and supporters in attendance, Larry and Peggy Martin of Louisville, Kentucky made a surprise visit to the stage. Larry spoke of how Doug’s words inspired them, and how they wanted to come forward and commit to joining the “One Acre Club” with a contribution of $15,000. Larry welcomed others who felt as strongly about Doug’s speech to also come forward and share the stage… and joining Larry and Peggy were Jack and Doris DeLong of Huntingdon Valley, PA; Andy Guinn of Douglassville, TX and Wendell (and Jan) Strode of Bowling Green, KY . Also making a commitment of purchasing an acre that evening were Steve and Debbie Uhrig of Arcanum, OH. Steve and Debbie had previously committed to purchasing an acre and increased that commitment to two acres. The following day, Wayne and P.J. Ray, founding members from Roswell, GA, came on board, committing to an acre. Other members and clubs also expressed interest in supporting the project in the near future.

“We’re so thrilled with the support and enthusiasm for our project,” said Museum Executive Director Wendell Strode. “In a tough economy, it means a lot to have so many Museum and motorsports supporters step up to the plate.”

Strode also announced at the Bash that the Motorsports Park would now be completed in phases so that the project can continue to progress. The museum currently owns 70 acres of land, and will be executing the option to purchase an additional 92 acres for Phase 1. Phase 1 will include a two mile “west” road course and autocross/skid pad area.

“Rather than hold up the entire project, hoping for major sponsorships to cover the initial $35 million project, we decided to break it into smaller, more achievable phases so that motorsports enthusiasts could begin enjoying portions of the park in the near future,” added Strode.

Phase 2 will include a ¼ mile drag strip, followed by an “east” road course, karting track and separate autocross / skidpad area in future phases.

About Me

This 115,000 sq. ft. showcase to America's sports car features over 80 Corvettes showcased in periodic settings including a mid-century barbershop, service station and historic race track! See classics in mint condition, one-of-a-kind prototypes that never went into production & modern-day wonders of engineering and design. Interact and test your skills by fueling up and changing tires at the "Pit Crew Challenge" exhibit, enjoy a film in the Chevy Theater and see rare collectibles and memorabilia. Sit behind the wheel of a Corvette and register to drive one home. Enjoy shopping in the Corvette Store which offers a wide selection of apparel, collectibles, home and gift items. Open daily, 8am-5pm.